Cervical Spine Artificial Disc Replacement

Cervical disc replacement is a surgical procedure of replacing the diseased or damaged intervertebral discs in the neck region with an artificial disc to restore the motion of spine. It is considered as an alternative to anterior cervical discectomy and fusion.

Artificial disc replacement is indicated in patients with degenerative disc disease, a condition referred to as a gradual degeneration of the disc between the vertebrae caused by a natural process of aging.

Procedure

During the surgery, an incision is made on the front side of the neck, at the level of the damaged cervical disc. The muscles and soft tissues are gently moved apart for better view of the cervical spine. The disc space is opened and the damaged disc is removed and replaced with the artificial disc. The proper position of the implanted disc is confirmed by fluoroscopy. Then the incision is closed.

Disc design

Artificial disc designs are of two types- disc nucleus replacement and total disc replacement.

In disc nucleus replacement only the central portion of the disc (nucleus) is removed and replaced with mechanical device, while the outer ring of the disc (annulus) is not removed. However disc nucleus replacement procedure is not commonly practiced and is in investigative stage. But in total artificial disc replacement, both the annulus and nucleus are replaced with a mechanical device to restore normal spinal function. Artificial discs are usually made up of metal, plastic or a combination of metal and plastic. Medical grade plastic (polyethylene) and medical grade cobalt chromium or titanium alloy are used for disc design.

As bone healing is not required following an artificial disc implantation, early movement is encouraged. Early motion can lead to quicker rehabilitation and recovery. Hospital stay of about 2 to 4 days may be required. Basic exercises like regular walking and stretching can be performed during the first few weeks after surgery.